Philips SHP9600 Open-Back Headphones: features, specs and who they suit

The Philips SHP9600 are wired, over-ear headphones with an open-back design. Philips aims them at home listening, and the model is also used for music work such as recording, podcasting and practising an instrument. They connect with a cable, so there is no battery to charge.

What open-back means

In an open-back design, the outer face of each ear cup is vented rather than sealed. Air and sound pass through, which typically gives a wider, more natural soundstage and reduces the sense of pressure in the ears. Open-back headphones leak sound both ways: people nearby will hear your music, and you will hear the room around you. That makes them better suited to quiet spaces at home than to commuting or shared offices.

50 mm drivers

The driver is the speaker element in each ear cup. Philips lists 50 mm drivers that it says deliver crisp bass, balanced midrange and clear highs. Larger drivers can move more air, which often helps with low frequencies, though the quality of tuning matters more than size alone. The company also says the drivers are shaped to fit the natural geometry of the ear.

Comfort and build

Philips says the headband is reinforced with steel, giving a secure amount of tension. A double-layered headband cushion and breathable ear cushions are meant for long sessions. The headphones measure about 3.9 x 6.8 x 7.9 inches and weigh about 0.7 lb, which is light for full-size headphones.

Detachable cable and connection

The audio cable detaches, so it can be replaced if it wears out. It includes a gold-plated 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm jack adapter. The 3.5 mm plug suits phones, laptops and TVs, while the larger 6.3 mm plug fits headphone amplifiers, audio interfaces and many musical instrument products. Philips mentions gold-plated connections for a good contact.

Because they are wired, these headphones are not Bluetooth. Many modern phones have no headphone socket, so you may need an adapter. Headphones with higher impedance can also need an amplifier for full volume; check the manual for the electrical specifications.

Who they suit

They suit listeners who want an open, spacious sound at home, and people who monitor recordings, edit podcasts or practise piano or guitar in a quiet room. They do not suit anyone who needs to block outside noise or keep sound from leaking out.

What to check before you buy

• Environment: confirm you will use them somewhere quiet where sound leakage does not matter.
• Source: check your device has a headphone socket or that you have a suitable adapter.
• Fit: make sure the size and clamping suit your head and any glasses.
• Cable: note the cable length and the connector types in the box.
• Care: check how to clean and replace the ear cushions.
• Listening level: keep volume at a comfortable level.

The short version

• Wired, over-ear, open-back stereo headphones.
• 50 mm drivers, with a steel-reinforced headband and breathable cushions.
• A detachable cable with a gold-plated 6.3 to 3.5 mm adapter.
• Sound leaks in and out, so they suit quiet rooms.

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